American Junkie Restaurant Review

: A self-important see-and-be-seen crowd is somewhat of a deterrent at this River North spot. Live entertainment is frequently offered, but you’ll be hard-pressed to hear it amid a roar of chatter and the 25 big-screens that compete for your attention. We will concede, however, that the bar’s fare is a far cry from the typical burger and fries found at rivaling sports bars. Instead, Kendal Duque (ex-Sepia) plates an array of grilled octopus, cedar-planked salmon and buffalo shrimp flatbread. Even the basics are dressed up: soft pretzels arrive with a bar cheese spread, and the freshly cut fries can be swapped for sides like au gratin potatoes. And you surely can’t leave without trying a bit of rum cake with roasted pecans, vanilla cream and caramel sauce.